FNS Documents & Resources

This recorded session gives a brief overview of USDA’s partnership with Nutri-Link, discusses how the new SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) application works, and describes how the application can supplement state and ITO efforts to certify eligible children for Summer EBT benefits.

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service conducts a variety of studies, evaluations, and related activities that respond to the needs of policymakers and managers and help ensure that nutrition assistance programs achieve their goals effectively. This plan provides short descriptions of projects that are expected to launch in fiscal year (FY) 2025. 

It reflects decisions by FNS program and research staff and leadership on the best use of available research funding to meet current information needs that are aligned with agency priorities to improve program efficiency, integrity, and nutrition. FNS developed this plan in consultation with the agencies of the Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Mission Area. 

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 authorized Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children (Summer EBT) as a permanent federal food assistance entitlement program beginning in summer 2024. Summer EBT has been tested through evaluations of demonstration projects since 2011. With pending implementation of this new program, this is an appropriate time to reflect on what USDA, FNS research has learned through more than a decade of study.

This webinar for Summer EBT implementing agencies provides an overview of the SEBT final POM template and guidance.

This webinar is geared towards state agencies and will address key provisions in the Interim Final Rule as related to providing non-congregate summer meals in rural areas.

This webinar is geared towards sponsors organizations and program operators and will address key provisions in the Interim Final Rule as related to providing non-congregate summer meals in rural areas.

The Summer EBT Early Guidance Webinar provides information to assist states and territories in preparing to implement Summer EBT in 2024. 

This webinar provides information to assist ITOs in preparing to implement Summer EBT in 2024. A separate webinar has been provided in relation to Summer EBT for states.

​The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted school meal operations and has contributed to lasting supply chain issues affecting the cost and availability of food and labor. The School Food Authority Survey II on Supply Chain Disruption and Student Participation was administered to all SFAs operating child nutrition programs in schools to gather information on the impacts of continued supply chain disruptions and the return to standard operations during SY 2022–23.